An Essential Guide to the World’s Most Spectacular Mountain Mammals, Unveiled at WWF India’s Headquarters by Dr Karan Singh
New Delhi, 3rd September 2024 – WWF India’s headquarters at Lodhi Estate played host to an extraordinary gathering of conservationists, dignitaries, and wildlife enthusiasts for the launch of “Mountain Mammals of the World,” a monumental work by the esteemed Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh. The event was graced by Padma Vibhushan Dr. Karan Singh of Kashmir, who had the honour of releasing the book. The foreword was penned by the legendary conservationist Dr. George Schaller, with an introduction by His Holiness The Dalai Lama, adding unparalleled significance to this literary masterpiece. The book is published by Penguin Random House.
Dr. George Schaller while introducing the book says, “No one knows the array of large mountain mammals better than M.K. Ranjitsinh. We are so fortunate that he has assembled his information and insights as well as data from the available literature into this timely volume of Mountain Mammals of the World. It represents a unique legacy and is a contribution to the world’s wildlife which will help guide conservation programmes and stimulate an everlasting commitment to protecting these species. It also provides hope and a positive vision for a healthy and harmonious environment, which is of benefit to all living beings for generations to come.”
In his address, Dr. Karan Singh praised Dr. Ranjitsinh’s work, saying, “This book will undoubtedly be his greatest work, destined to go down in history as a valuable encyclopaedia of information regarding mountain mammals. It’s an essential resource for anyone passionate about the natural world.”
Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh remarked, “There are only four large mountain mammal species in the whole of Africa and just two in the entire Andes Range of South America, the longest mountain chain in the world. I have seen six species in one day, in one nala in Changchenmo of Ladakh, and did not see the snow leopard and the Tibetan lynx, which I know are there.” He further emphasised, “What is unacceptable is that our mountains are so rich in biodiversity, and yet, let alone appreciate it, we don’t even know about them.”
Shri Jigmey Jungney, Representative of His Holiness The Dalai Lama, highlighted the spiritual connection between humanity and nature, saying, “This book is not just a collection of words; it is a reflection of the author’s deep commitment to preserving the natural world. His Holiness Dalai Lama has always emphasised the interdependence between humans and nature, urging us to act as guardians of our beautiful environment.”
“Mountain Mammals of the World” is an extensive compendium that brings to life 58 species and a total of 119 mountain mammal taxa from around the globe. The book is not only rich in information but is also visually captivating, with breathtaking photographs and maps that illustrate the distribution, behaviour, ecology, and status of each species. This work serves as a definitive guide to understanding some of the most spectacular animals on earth, set against the backdrop of the world’s most magnificent mountains.
Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh’s legacy as one of India’s foremost conservationists is well-established. His remarkable career has seen him spearhead numerous wildlife protection initiatives, including the creation of sanctuaries and national parks across India, the enactment of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, of 1972, and the initiation of iconic projects like Project Tiger and Project Snow Leopard. His dedication to wildlife preservation has earned him numerous accolades, including the Order of the Golden Ark by the Netherlands and the UNEP Global 500 Roll of Honour.
“Mountain Mammals of the World” is now available through Penguin Random House and is expected to be a cornerstone for wildlife enthusiasts, researchers, and conservationists worldwide.
About Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh
Dr. MK Ranjitsinh Jhala is an author and authority on wildlife and nature conservation from India. Belonging to the royal family of Wankaner, Dr. M.K. Ranjitsinh has been a pioneering figure in wildlife conservation, both in India and internationally. With a distinguished career spanning decades, he has authored several books and articles, leaving an indelible mark on the conservation landscape. He also served as Chairman of the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI); Dir-Gen CAPART; Dir. and Regional Co-ordinator WWF Tiger Conservation Programme (TCP). Regional Adviser in Nature Conservation (Asia & Pacific) for UNEP. Trustee The Corbett Foundation, member National Forest Commission, Indian Institute of Forest Management Society, International Tropical Timber Organization, Madhya Pradesh State Wildlife Board until 2006
